Hand distribution circuit to mini goals and balls on cones
The keeper advances from the line to two discs, catches a volley from the coach and distributes by hand (roll, javelin or overarm) into mini goals or to knock balls off cones placed along the sides of the box.
El portero sale con pasos cortos hasta colocarse entre los dos discos amarillos.
Objective
Link footwork, catch and hand distribution, choosing the throwing technique that suits the distance to the target and improving accuracy.
Organisation
Penalty area. Two yellow discs on the six-yard line 4 yards apart. Two mini goals placed in different positions at the sides of the 18-yard box and, for the accuracy phase, six cones with a ball on top spread along the sides of the box. Keepers on the goal line, one working and one waiting. Coach or server at the edge of the D with balls.
Development
- 1The keeper advances with short steps from the goal line to a position between the two yellow discs.
- 2The coach serves a volley; the keeper catches with correct technique and secures the ball to the chest.
- 3Without a pause, the keeper picks a target and distributes by hand: underarm roll for close targets, javelin for medium range and overarm throw for distant ones.
- 4He backpedals to the goal line and the second keeper steps in.
- 5After five minutes the mini goals are replaced by six cones with balls on top: the keeper must knock the balls off; every ball knocked off is a point.
- 6Built-in progressions: start facing away and turn on the call; the server bounces or throws instead of volleying; receive a pass to feet first, return it, then catch the aerial ball and distribute.
Coaching points4
- Roll: step forward into a lunge, body low, ball rolling tight to the grass.
- Javelin: ball held at the ear, straight forward throw stepping into the motion.
- Overarm: non-throwing arm points at the target; release early for height, late for pace.
- Short, sharp feet on every movement; secure the catch before thinking about the throw.
Common mistakes3
- Throwing before the catch is secure and losing the ball.
- Choosing the overarm throw for a close target and losing accuracy.
- Running back to the line facing forward and losing sight of the server.
Variations3
- Four mini goals instead of two to force a look before the throw.
- Moving targets: teammates making runs along the edge of the box.
- Pairs competition: whoever knocks off the most balls in ten throws wins.
Progressions2
- The coach names the target right after the catch to demand a reaction.
- Add a passive attacker who pressures the throw after the catch.
Regressions2
- Hand service at chest height and targets under 10 m away.
- One throwing technique per set until the technique is consolidated.
Tips
- Use slightly deflated balls on the cones so they do not roll off.
- Count the hits out loud: at this age competition keeps attention high.